“It seems very likely that they were dumped and that this was the reason why.”

The puppies were around eight weeks old when they were found, so are around nine weeks old now, which is the age at which breeders would usually look to rehome them.

“They were taken straight to a vets in Leeds where they were looked after for three days and are now in the care of the great staff at RSPCA Doncaster, Rotherham & District branch animal centre,” said Inspector Walker.

“There is a long way to go before they will be ready for adoption, but the animal centre has already taken a number of calls from people interested in giving them a forever home so the future is definitely looking bright for them.”

Anyone with any information about who they belonged to, or who saw anything they think might help the RSPCA’s investigation, is asked to call the inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and leave a message for Inspector Walker.

He added: “Sarcoptic mange is a very contagious condition that causes a great deal of suffering to the dogs who get it and I am extremely concerned that the puppies’ mum could also have it, and any other dogs at the location too. If you can help me to find her, please get in touch.”